There are many reasons to switch to solar energy. Some people make the switch because they are passionate about the environment and want to do their part in preserving it. Others switch to solar because they want to save money on their energy bills. Whatever the reason, solar energy is a great option for homeowners and businesses alike. In this post, we will discuss 10 compelling reasons to make the switch to solar energy!
What Are The Best Reasons For A Homeowner To Go Solar?
Our sun’s energy is free and inexhaustible. Solar panels installed on your home or business can collect this energy and convert it into electricity to power your property. This process is called photovoltaic (PV), and it doesn’t emit any harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Solar energy technologies, also known as solar photovoltaics, capture the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity. Solar cells, or PV cells, are made of special materials that create an electric field when exposed to sunlight. Concentrated solar power (CSP) systems use mirrors or lenses to concentrate a large area of sunlight onto a small area. PV cells then convert this concentrated light into electricity.
Solar technologies can be used to produce electricity, to heat water or air, or to provide light. Solar radiation can also be used to power a variety of devices, from calculators and watches to homes and businesses.
What makes modern solar technology so compelling is that it’s more efficient and less expensive than ever before. In the past, solar panels were large, bulky, and not very effective at converting sunlight into electricity. However, advances in solar panel technology have resulted in smaller, more efficient panels that are capable of generating a significant amount of power.
Here are the most compelling reasons to switch to solar energy:
#1 Solar Energy Is Good For The Environment
The United States has been relying on fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas to generate electricity for many years. These traditional sources of energy are finite, and their combustion emits harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases.
To collect solar energy, solar panels are installed on rooftops or in open spaces. The sun’s rays strike the solar panel and are converted into direct current (DC) electricity. This DC electricity can then be inverted into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the type of electricity used in homes and businesses.
Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that doesn’t emit these harmful pollutants. In fact, switching to solar can help reduce your carbon footprint and do your part in preserving the environment for future generations.
#2 Solar Energy Is A Free Resource
Once you’ve installed solar panels on your home or business, you can reap the benefits of free electricity for many years to come. The initial investment may be higher than traditional forms of energy, but over time, solar will save you money.
In addition, the price of solar panels has been dropping steadily over the past few years, making them more affordable than ever. With solar panels, you can take control of your energy costs and save money on your electricity bills for years to come.
#3 Solar Energy Systems Help You Save Money
Solar energy systems can help you save money in two ways: by reducing your dependence on the grid and by providing you with free electricity. Reducing your dependence on the grid means you’ll use fewer fossil fuels, lowering your utility bills. And because solar panels generate electricity for free, you’ll save even more money over time.
In addition, many states offer solar rebates and incentives to encourage homeowners and businesses to switch to solar. These programs can help offset the initial cost of installing a solar system and make going solar even more affordable.
Pro Tip: How Solar Energy Can Save You Money
#4 Solar Energy Increases The Value Of Your Property
Installing a solar system in your home or business can increase the value of your property. In fact, a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that homes with solar panels sell 20% faster and for 17% more money than homes without solar.
If you’re considering selling your property in the future, going solar is a great way to increase its value. If you decide to lease your solar system, the lessee will be responsible for maintaining the system and may even make payments to you.
#5 Solar Helps You Become Electricity Independent
Solar panels allow you to generate your own electricity, which means you’re not as reliant on the grid. This is especially beneficial during power outages or if you live in an area with unreliable electricity.
With a solar system, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a backup source of power in case of an emergency. If you have a battery backup system, you can even store electricity for later use.
Solar panels also allow you to generate electricity during peak hours when rates are highest. This means that you can sell excess electricity back to the grid and earn money.
#6 Solar Is Low Maintenance
Solar systems are designed to last for many years, and they require very little maintenance. In fact, the only regular maintenance solar panels need is a yearly cleaning to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on them.
Solar systems don’t have any moving parts, so they’re much less likely to break down than other types of energy systems. This means that you can enjoy years of worry-free electricity generation.
If you experience any problems with your solar system, most manufacturers offer 20-year or more warranties. This means that you’ll be covered in the unlikely event that something does go wrong.
#7 Solar Power Can Use Underutilized Land
Solar farms can be built on underutilized lands, such as parking lots or brownfields. This is beneficial because it doesn’t require taking away valuable farmland from food production.
In addition, solar farms can actually have a positive impact on the environment. They can provide wildlife habitats and help improve water quality by reducing runoff and erosion.
#8 Tax Incentives Will Decline In Coming Years
The federal government offers a tax credit for solar systems that cover 30% of the cost of installation. However, this credit is set to decline in the coming years.
The good news is that many states still offer solar incentives, so be sure to check what’s available in your area. These programs can help offset the cost of installing a solar system and make going solar more affordable.
In addition, many utilities offer programs that pay customers for excess electricity generated by their solar panels. Even if the federal tax credit expires, you may still be able to earn money from your solar system.
#9 Installing Solar Panels Protects The Roof Of Your Home
Solar panels help protect the roof of your home from weather damage. This is because the panels keep the sun’s heat and UV rays from directly hitting the roof.
In addition, solar panels act as a barrier against wind and hail damage. If you live in an area prone to severe weather, solar panels can help protect your home from damage. Plus, most solar panels come with a warranty of 20 years or more, so if something does happen to your panels, you’ll be covered.
#10 Solar Energy Creates Jobs And Helps Your Local Economy
Solar energy is a rapidly growing industry, and it’s creating jobs all over the country. In fact, solar installations were the fastest-growing job in the U.S. in 2018.
Since solar panels are manufactured locally, installing them helps to support your local economy. When you go solar, you’re not only helping the environment, you’re also supporting your community.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many reasons to switch to solar energy. Solar panels offer a wide range of benefits, and there has never been a better time to go solar. With declining costs and increasing incentives, now is the perfect time to make the switch to solar.
What are you waiting for? At Intelligent Design, we can help you every step of the way, from choosing the right solar panel system to providing financing options. Contact us today to learn more about how you can save money and help the environment by switching to solar energy.